Among the first settlers to Manhattan were pioneers with the backing of New York investors, who insisted settlers call their new community “Manhattan”. When the “Big Apple” nickname was dusted off for a 1970s NYC tourism campaign, a short while later Manhattan KS sought The Little Apple® moniker, circa 1977. The recognition is used to promote Manhattan as a tourism destination and north-central Kansas hub for conventions, economic development, industrial advancement and trade.

That would be our old pal Johnny Kaw ... the one-and-only, scythe-wielding Johnny Kaw, livin' large! The pioneer spirit of Kansas lives large with this gigantic 30-foot statue of the formidable farmer. The Johnny Kaw legend was created by Kansas State University horticulture professor George Filinger for the 1955 city centennial; with the statue erected in the park a decade later. Johnny rocks!

You have come to the right place! Manhattan is well known for its eclectic selection of unique dining destinations, and all carry a certain "dramatic flair" for incomparable culinary settings. The Little Apple® dishes up big servings of delectable dishes, whether it's Poyntz panache, awesome Aggieville hot spots or Westloop luminosity, MHK knows how to make magic on a dinner plate.

First of all, yes, it does! Unfortunately, Fort Riley museums are closed for renovations until 2020. When the museums return, learn how General George Custer, Buffalo Soldiers and the Big Red One have made Fort Riley a very notable military installation for nearly 170 years (Jackie Robinson served at Fort Riley). Visitors without DOD ID require temporary Fort Riley access pass/badge, obtained at Visitor Control Center (Henry Drive near Marshall Air Field, accessed just off Interstate 70). For pre-approval, email usarmy.riley.imcom-central.mbx.des-vcc@mail.mil. Fort Riley requires additional ID for visitors with Minnesota, Missouri and Washington driver’s licenses.

We've got you covered to find more than a dozen running/walking trails. Manhattan is a biking friendly community with great access and ample bike lanes. With a major university, there's also no shortage of students that find jogging access at City Park and many more beautiful locations. Use this list to get you started.

Paddle on the Kansas River or Tuttle Creek Reservoir's river pond area just 5 miles north of Manhattan. Those are the main areas to paddle in close proximity to MHK. Many of the smaller streams run through private property, so make measured judgments or seek authorization.

Primarily, know that Manhattan has a "hands-free-driving" ordinance, so you may use electronic devices only if you maintain two-hands-on-the-wheel driving. Plus, smoking is prohibited in all public places, to include restaurant establishments. Lastly, if you're out enjoying nightlife and especially in Aggieville, open container laws are enforced. You may not carry adult beverages into the street. Legal drinking age limit is 21 for all alcohol, which can be purchased in liquor stores (grocery-store sales limited to beer sales and have a lower alcohol content).